Open Lab Gears Up

Founded by The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) and the H&M Foundation, the Open Lab aims to provide agile solutions for the textiles, apparel, and fashion industries to address climate change through collaborative efforts.

The Fashion Future Lab has already commenced its operation. Its first project, “Farm-to-Garment”, has established a location-independent production line covering the hydroponic cultivation of extra-long staple cotton, yarn spinning and garment knitting. This project demonstrates how the shortened supply chain can reduce the carbon footprint resulting from decreasing material transportation between processes. Fashion Future Lab will be dedicated to developing exploratory technological solutions, and industry collaboration is welcomed in developing new technologies.

Installations at Open Lab’s Pilot Plant are underway and will be ready soon for industrial-scale demonstration and trial of technologies. Visitors will learn about the AI-powered garment sorting system, the Green Machine that separates blended textiles into their original single materials, and the mechanical recycling system optimised for polyester fibres. These solutions will become an exemplar of a comprehensive closed-loop garment manufacturing line.

To enhance industry understanding of the Open Lab’s work, we have participated in various fashion and innovation trade fairs, such as the Fashion InStyle and the InnoEx held this April. Additionally, the Open Lab’s website has been revamped to include facility introductions for Pilot Plant and Fashion Future Lab.

Open Lab is set to officially launch this September. We will keep you informed on its latest events. Industry support and participation are welcomed to jointly develop more solutions and drive sustainable development in the fashion industry.

Cultivating extra-long staple cotton in the Fashion Future Lab using hydroponics

Facilities in Pilot Plant are gradually moving in

Introducing Open Lab in the Fashion InStyle

Detailed information of the physical lab is introduced in the Open Lab website